What is a dovetail jig used for?

But essentially, a dovetailing jig is a device which holds timber in a vertical position so that each dovetail joint can be cut with a router. Most jigs use a template attached to the base to make a joint with a particular shape. For example, to cut small, medium or large dovetails.

Do you need a dovetail jig?

When looking to increase the craftsmanship of your woodworking projects, a dovetail jig could be the answer. These jigs allow you to create strong and accurate dovetail joints for boxes, drawers, and furniture without fasteners. In fact, you could consider a dovetail jig an essential tool for any woodworking shop.

Can you make a dovetail jig?

Dovetail jigs are great woodworking tools that help with creating accurate joints. You can make perfect dovetail joints with just the right jig. But the thing is, these jigs are just too simple to build and making it yourself would save you some spare bucks.

What does a dovetail joint look like?

Dovetail joints are a sign of a true craftsman. There are two parts to a dovetail joint, pins and tails. The tails look like the tail of a dove (hence the name), and the pins are on the opposite board and fit in between the tails to create a joint that is impossible to pull apart in at least one direction.

Are pocket holes better?

The superior strength of a pocket hole joint has actually been proven. Independent testing found that a pocket screw joint failed at 707 pounds when subjected to a shear load while a comparable mortise and tenon joint failed at 453 pounds – meaning that the pocket screw joint was approximately 35\% stronger.

Should dovetail joints be glued?

Dovetail joints show the care and craftsmanship applied to woodworking projects. A few simple gluing and assembly tips make dovetail joint easier to put together. The glue can be applied while the pieces are completely separate, which is easier, but can be messy and difficult to fit joints together.